What happens when you take some of the classic veterans of Viking, Folk and Black Metal, and make an AC/DC style Viking Folk Metal album? You get this. Featuring members of Primordial, Dimmu Borgir, Aura Noir, Thyrfing, and Einherjer all making a very simple ass kicking Power Metal sort of album about the Twilight of the Gods. Again, it's a very simple, stripped down kind of album, expecially compared to what these guys are used to playing, but it kicks so much ass it makes you wanna grab a horde of Vikings and drink the blood of your enemies.

So many people forgot about this album this year it is really sad because it is a classic Amorphis album. It's the Classic Folky progressive Metal mixed in with some Death and Doom Metal for good measure throughout the album. Amorphis is just one of those bands that no matter what they try, they can do no wrong, and I know many people will protest that statement. I don't care I love every album and Circle is no Different. it is just as killer as anything they have ever done, and so damn beautiful.

Tyr is one of those bands that isn't afraid to show their roots, and their roots are Folk and Viking Metal in the lyrics, and Iron Maiden and Pantera in the music. This album is no different, but that is a good thing, it's a great combination. It's fast, it's heavy, it's cheesy at times especially with lyrics like Mare of My Night. It also features George Kollias on some of his slowest playing ever, stuff that isn't 300bpm Blast Beats in 5/8 (haha) Overall, while not the best Tyr album, it is a damn solid album that kicks ass, and that's all you really need in a Tyr album.

Fates Warning has always been one of the greatest Prog Metal bands to ever exist. although every underrated to anyone that is not in the Prog World. The long awaited new album from the band more than delivers, it carries on all the greatness that Fates Warning is abut and more. Yes Ray Adler will never be able to hit the high notes of his youth, but honestly, I don't think he needs to. His mids and lows are too damn good to ignore and are showcased wonderfully here on this album. all the tracks have their charm and it never feels like it drags, that is a rarity in Prog today. I hope Fates Warning sticks around this time, they have been sorely missed.

There is only one thing that Orphaned Land has been missing in their sound to make them an absolute powerhouse, and they finally got it on this album, symphonics. Considering the nature of the band, you'd think symphonics would have been a major part of the band since day one, but are not. Along with that in tact the album is very accessible in terms of the music with minimal growls at all or any kind of Death Metal, more Prog Metal and Symphonics. An excellent Prog album across the board and a great gateway into the band.

Power Pop Melodic Death Metal. This is one of the most fun albums of the year. Where Power Metal, Melodeath, and Pop Metal take over in their spots and create a form of music that any fan of Hard and Heavy music should love. I can't see anything to hate about these guys, it's fun, they are fun, they gave me one of my best interviews this year, and they put on such a fun live show. The Nexus is an album for all Rock and Metal fans to unite with and enjoy some killer fun music.

I personally love this album! it made number 6 on my list. did you got to meet Elize ryd?